LINK celebrates 35 years of service to the community

By Elizabeth Coe
Source: Loudoun Times-Mirror
TUESDAY, JULY 31 2007

For the past 30 years, Sterling resident Jim Butts has spent much of his time giving back to the local community.

As past president and a current member of LINK, Butts, 66, said he is thrilled to be with the organization for so long and to help celebrate its 35th anniversary this year.

"You constantly get a good feeling when you're helping others less fortunate than yourself," he said. "That's what God put us on this earth to do."

LINK, once an acronym for Loudoun Interdenominational Network for Karing, is one of the area's first all-volunteer emergency support organizations.

The group held its first meeting 35 years ago, in July 1972, when it was made up of representatives from five churches -- Sterling United Methodist, Sterling Park Catholic, Trinity Presbyterian, Galilee United Methodist and Community Lutheran.

Back then, LINK's mission was similar to what it is today, said Butts, a representative of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Herndon, but clothing, furniture and food were all collected to give to those in need.

Today, the organization deals mostly with food collection and grocery gift certificates. It consists of a group of volunteers from 13 churches in Loudoun and Herndon, which work together to serve the community.

"LINK continues to be an important force behind the scenes in Sterling and Herndon to provide food for those facing difficult times," said President Betty Eidemeyer, who joined LINK's board in 2005. "I think it's a great program. It's incredible the number of people who work hand in hand. It's incredible what they can do."

In an average week, there are about 30 volunteers taking calls, packing and delivering food to needy families, picking up baked goods from local stores and conducting other activities, she said.

In 2006, LINK served 626 local families with food deliveries.

At the annual Thanksgiving and Christmas events last year, 705 local families received a five-day supply of nonperishable foods, more than $15,500 in grocery gift certificates and 3,500 pounds of butchered and packaged deer meat, Eidemiller said.

Also, 2,500 toys went to children in the area last year during the holiday season. About 600 used coats were also passed along.

This summer, Eidemiller said, LINK is participating in a new initiative to collect used mattresses and bedding for the needy.

Butts said the people who serve LINK often end up volunteering for many years.

"We have a good mix of new people and those who stay for 20 to 25 years," he said. "It's a very well-run charity supported by many churches, individuals and corporations."

Butts said the 35th anniversary this year is also significant.

"It's an indication of the kind of dedication and support we get from all the volunteers," he said. "And it's continuing to improve."

Contact the reporter at ecoe@timespapers.com